The Bath Rugby tighthead has flown out to Portugal to replace Kyle Sinckler, who has a hamstring injury and will return to Harlequins for an assessment and treatment.

Thomas has won seven England caps with his last coming against New Zealand in 2014. His last matchday squad involvement was as an unused substitute in 2015 but he had the opportunity to train with the squad on a two-day camp in Brighton last month.

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Dan Cole and Harry Williams are expected to be the frontline props for England during the Six Nations, but Thomas now has the opportunity to show head coach Eddie Jones and scrum coach Neal Hatley what he can do.

Before his call-up, the 26-year-old told the Chronicle: "I've been out for a while and I know I've got quite a bit of catching up to do.